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Events, Family Vacations in Toronto, Holiday Events, Vacation Travel

Tips for Better Thanksgiving Travel

October 8, 2019

Canadian Thanksgiving, celebrated on the second Monday in October, will take place on Monday October 14th this year (2019).

The week of Thanksgiving can be one of the craziest travel periods of the year, with millions of people flying to visit family and friends for the holiday. This can make things pretty stressful.

However, traveling during Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here are some tips for your next Thanksgiving getaways.

Smart Thanksgiving Travel Tips

Plan ahead and arrive early, think about the rush hour times for each city you have to drive through. Unexpected delays might happen, so it’s a good idea to build in extra time just in case.
When driving, consider taking the scenic route. Even though the distance may be longer, you won’t end up sitting bumper to bumper so it might be faster.
Download the Waze app. It allows you to see real-time updates on accidents, traffic, police traps and more.
If you’re road tripping with kids, make sure you bring along plenty of books, toys and other distractions to keep them happy and entertained while on the journey.
If you have to travel by plane, save money by flying back on Black Friday. Everyone is too busy shopping and the rates for flights are often much cheaper.
If the airline gives you the option for text messages with flight updates, take it! Sometimes it’s really useful and can alert you to last minute updates.
Also, you can use your smartphone to check-in early and have your boarding pass delivered electronically. This will allow you to bypass the line at the check-in kiosk.
If you can be flexible with your dates, you can usually find last minute deals on Skyscanner.
If you’re tempted to stay in a hotel rather than sleep in the spare room or sofa, hotels are usually underbooked during Thanksgiving and you may be able to find last minute deals.
When bringing food, sweet, treats and other goodies with you on the plane, make sure you check with the airline first. For example, gravies, relishes and jams are often considered “liquid” and are not allowed on the plane.
When it comes to what clothing to pack, the key word is layers. Temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day in the autumn, so make sure you can adjust when things cool down.

Where to Go for Thanksgiving

What if you’re planning to hit the road and enjoy a getaway over the Thanksgiving holiday? There are many different Thanksgiving destinations available throughout Canada and the USA – here are a few great options you might consider.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: This family-friendly destination has lots of great festive events around American Thanksgiving. For example, you can enjoy Winterfest, a beautiful celebration of lights.
Toronto, Ontario: Head to the bright lights and big city of Toronto for Thanksgiving. There’s so much to see and do in the city!
Las Vegas, Nevada: Why not go on a Thanksgiving getaway to Sin City and have a bit of fun in the casinos? If you hit the jackpot, you’ll have a lot to be thankful for!
Montreal, Quebec: This beautiful city is so much fun to explore over Thanksgiving. The autumn leaves look spectacular and the weather is just right. Do some shopping, check out the art galleries and more. (Note: Thanksgiving is known as action de grâce in Quebec and it is celebrated slightly less than in other parts of Canada.)
The Adirondacks, New York: This stunning forested area in New York state looks even more beautiful in the autumn as the leaves begin to change colour. Check out the many award-winning spas, golf courses and restaurants in the region.
Chicago, Illinois: Why not pair your Thanksgiving turkey with a deep dish pizza while you explore this exciting and culturally rich American city? Check out the famous stand-up comedy scene and go on an architecture tour (skyscrapers were invented here).
Vancouver Island, British Columbia: Stroll the beaches of Tofino, go on a whale watching tour or take a walking tour of historic downtown Victoria’s turn-of-the-century buildings.
Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee: Explore the great outdoors at one of the most popular National Parks in the USA. With over 150 official hiking trails, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to breathe in the fresh and crisp fall air.

(Keep in mind that if you will be traveling over the border on Thanksgiving long weekend, you should allow for extra time. The border will be busy and you may need to wait in line for quite some time.)

Be Thankful

Last but not least, the most important tip for Thanksgiving travel is to be thankful. Even though your journey may be delayed and crowded, express gratitude for the opportunity to travel with your loved ones and enjoy your holiday.

Business Travel, Downtown Toronto, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

The Essential Travel Packing List

October 1, 2019

When you are planning for a trip, it really helps to have a travel checklist you can follow along with – to make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Packing can be stressful and it’s easy to accidentally forget something important. With a checklist, you don’t have to think so hard. You can simply follow along with the checklist and make sure you have remember all the travel essentials you wanted to bring.

So, what should you include on your travel packing list? Your packing list for vacation will of course depend on where you are going and what you plan to do when you get there. However, there are a few essentials that you will likely want to bring along with you on any trip – which is why a general international travel packing list is helpful.

The key to packing light is to bring items that are compact and serve multiple purposes. For example, a sarong is a great travel essential. It can roll up very small but it can be used as a scarf, a skirt, a swimsuit cover-up, a towel and even a lightweight sheet or blanket. Another great item is a simple cotton dress that can be worn with casual shoes or sandals during the day, then dressed up with jewellery in the evening.

Also, remember that if you are coming for a long trip you might be able to find the items you need when you arrive. Most items are available in local shops and pharmacies abroad – with the exception of special prescription medication and some other personal items.

Travel Packing List: What to Pack for A Trip

Wondering what to pack for a trip? Here are some of the typical essentials that most travelers will want to bring with them on their trip. You can use this vacation packing list as a base for developing your own unique, personalized packing checklist.

Clothing Essentials Packing List

Socks
Underwear
Bras
T-shirts
Pajamas (although, these are not necessary if you are short on room. You can sleep in a t-shirt)
Swimsuit
Shorts
Jeans
Belt
Dresses
Skirts
Sweaters (even if you’re in a warm destination, pack one lightweight layer for air-conditioned airports and buses)
Scarves
Sandals
Running/Walking Shoes
Purses/Handbags/Wallets
Sarong
Travel towel

Toiletries Packing List

Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Dental Floss
Soap
Deodorant
Shampoo/Conditioner (some hotels will have it, but it’s not guaranteed.)
Small packet of laundry detergent (so you can wash your clothes as you go)
Hairbrush
Hair elastics
Hair products (gel, hairspray, mouse, etc.)
Facial Cleanser
Moisturizer
Sunscreen
Shaving supplies
Contact lenses and solution
Makeup/Makeup Remover
Tampons/Pads/Diva Cup
Birth control/Condoms
Nail clippers
Tweezers
Hand sanitizer
Bandages
Antibacterial ointment
Painkillers
Insect repellant
Imodium
Motion sickness pills (especially if you will be traveling by boat)
Cold and flu tablets
Medications
Anything specific to the location (such as antimalarial pills)

Electronics & Miscellaneous Items Packing List

Laptop
Smartphone
Chargers
Adapter (research which type of electrical socket is used at your destination!)
Digital camera
Memory card
E-reader
Headphones
Earplugs
Tissues
Gum
Lip Balm
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Important Documents & Travel Necessities
Passport
Flight confirmation
Credit cards
Emergency contacts
Copies of passport/credit card, etc.

Tips for Maximizing Space in Your Luggage

Don’t leave packing to the last minute. Give yourself time to think carefully about what you should bring.
Place the largest and heaviest items in first, then pack the other small items around them.
Bring some laundry powder and wash your clothes in the sink as you go, so you can wear them more than once and don’t have to pack as much. (Wearing clothes with quick-dry fabric really helps with this.)
Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes while on the plane to save room in your luggage.
Roll your clothes rather than folding them. It saves more space and eliminates creases.
Bring a couple of canvas bags. They roll up small and can be used for dirty laundry, shoes or shopping bags.
Pack items inside other items. For example, roll up socks and put them inside your shoes.
Last but not least – if you want to pack light, simply bring a smaller suitcase. You’ll be forced to choose only the things you really need.

Share your packing tips with us!

What do you include on your packing list? Do you have any smart packing tips you use when you travel? If there’s anything we’ve missed on this vacation checklist, let us know in the comments below.

Lifestyle talk, Vacation Travel

Must Know Tips for Solo Travel

September 24, 2019

Traveling solo is incredibly rewarding. It is empowering, liberating and gives you a chance to truly explore the world at your own pace.
However, it can also be challenging. Making your way through the world on your own solo vacations comes with its own set of struggles and obstacles to overcome. Here are some important things to know before you set off on your solo travel adventure or singles vacations.

Solo Travel Tips

Research in Advance

Knowledge is your best weapon when it comes to traveling alone. The more you know before you arrive somewhere, the better you’ll be able to navigate when you’re there. Look up important information on your destination, such how to get around, things to do, how much to tip, whether or not to haggle, etc.
Also, it’s important to research the common scams in your destination before you go. That way, you’ll know what to avoid when you get there. Your best advantage for solo travel is knowledge.

Stay on Your Guard

When you’re traveling on your own, you’ll need to be wary of potential threats and look out for your own safety. This means being cautious and trusting your instincts.
Also, it means following simple common-sense advice to protect yourself. For example, don’t flash a lot of expensive jewellery or electronics as you walk down the street. Don’t walk alone late at night in an isolated neighbourhood. Don’t leave your valuables unattended. It’s alright to have a drink, but try to keep your wits about you.

But Don’t Be Afraid to Open Up

Of course, there’s a difference between being safe and sensible while you travel, and not interacting with anyone out of fear. You’ll want to meet people and make connections on your trip, as these can be some of the best memories of your travels. Consider staying in a hostel, so that you’ll naturally have the opportunity to chat with others during your trip. Or, you can take vacations for singles that will help you meet people.

Pack Light

One of the typical mistakes first-time solo travellers make is packing too much stuff. Lugging around too much heavy oversized luggage is incredibly hard on your back. But, it also means that you have more stuff to worry about getting stolen. Plus, you’ll really struggle if you have to take a flight of stairs, or run for a train.

Join a Walking Tour

One of the best activities you can do when you are traveling solo is to join a walking tour of your destination. There are great tours available in every major tourist city in the world. They will take you to the top highlights of the city and show you some of the most interesting attractions. These types of tours are great for a couple reasons. First of all, they are a safe and easy way to explore without having to worry about getting lost. Secondly, they can be a simple way to meet other travelers and make connections.

Limit Your Social Media Access

Of course, you’ll probably want to post some amazing photos of your adventures on your Facebook and Instagram. However, avoid spending your entire trip looking at your phone! Try your best to put down your phone for most of the day when you are traveling solo. You’ll pay more attention to what’s happening around you and it will help you immerse yourself in your destination.

Solo Travel Destinations: The Best Places to Travel Alone

Some of the best places to travel alone in the US are large cities, because there’s always something to do. But what are some of the best international locations in the world for solo travel?

The United Kingdom: Friendly, safe and with an extensive public transport network, the UK is a very easy and enjoyable place to travel alone. From world class museums to peaceful countryside villages, there’s a lot to explore.
Thailand: One of the best countries in Southeast Asia for first-time solo travellers, Thailand is warm, friendly, beautiful and easy to get around. You can enjoy the bustling city life of Bangkok, or find a quiet island to relax for a while.
New Zealand: A very popular destination with solo backpackers, New Zealand has gorgeous scenery, exciting outdoor adventures and culture-rich cities to explore. It’s one of the best places for solo travel.
Peru: Whether you’re marvelling at the stunning ruins of Machu Picchu or shopping for locally made textiles in Cusco, Peru is a fun, safe and exciting place to travel on your own. Plus, it’s very affordable if you are on a small budget.
Georgia: The country of Georgia, not the US state, that is. Explore the stunning Caucasus Mountains, quiet Medieval villages and the vibrant cultural scene of Tbilisi. The locals are incredibly welcoming and are always happy to help a solo traveler enjoy their stay.

Family Vacations in Toronto, Toronto Condos, Vacation Travel

Toronto – A Pet-Friendly City

September 20, 2019

Although Toronto is one of the largest, busiest and densest cities in Canada – it is surprisingly pet-friendly.

In fact, Torontonians love their animal friends. According to city planning staff, there are three to five dogs per floor in Toronto condos. There’s a growing number of dog-friendly establishments in the downtown area, and the general attitude to canine companions is a welcoming one.

In fact, Toronto condos are beginning to build in pet-friendly features to attract a clientele with canine companions – such as dog grooming services, dog parks, pet shops and pet-friendly cafes.

The Livmore is a great example. On the fifth floor of this chic, stylish downtown Toronto apartment building you will find a convenient dog-friendly area – which is home to a pet spa and an outdoor play area known as the “Bark Park.” This area, lined with artificial turf, features fire hydrants, benches and even a mini obstacle course for dogs to play on.

The pet-friendly aspects of the Livmore are just one of the many examples of how Toronto offers our furry friends a warm welcome.

What Makes Toronto Pet-Friendly?

Let’s take a look at some of the other aspects of the city that make Toronto a great place to hang out with your canine companion.

Welcoming Shops

Many of the boutiques and shops between Bathurst and Gladstone are dog friendly and won’t mind if you bring your pooch in with you while you look around. They might even offer water and treats for your furry friend.

Laid Back Breweries

If you want to enjoy a local beer, there are many places where you can bring your four-legged companion. For example, at local craft brewery Henderson Brewing, they host monthly dog friendly events and dogs are always welcome whenever you stop in for a tasting.

Green Spaces

There are many great parks and wilderness areas scattered throughout the city where you and your dog can get some exercise and fresh air. For example, downtown Toronto borders Lake Ontario to the South, so you can head down to the waterfront to take a stroll along the boardwalk.

There’s also Trinity Bellwoods park, which features a Dog Bowl off-leash area, where you and your pooch can hang out with many other dogs of Toronto and their owners.

Pet-Friendly Transport

Dogs are allowed on the Toronto transport system of buses, streetcars and subways – as long as it is outside of rush hour. So, you can bring your pooch on public transport and explore the city with them!

Canine-Loving Eateries

While most cafes and restaurants in Toronto will not allow your dog inside due to health and safety laws, there are still plenty of dog-friendly places to eat. For example, at Lick It Gelato on Queens Quay West, your pooch is welcome and they even sell a “doggie gelato” that is dairy and sugar free.

Planning a trip to Toronto with Man’s Best Friend?

If you are heading to Toronto and are looking for a convenient and pet-friendly place to stay, the Livmore is an ideal option. For more info, contact us today.

Business Travel, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

Tips for Packing Your Bags Without Stress

September 6, 2019

Packing your bags with everything you need for a trip, without bringing too much, can be a challenge.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of saying, “I’ll bring this along, just in case.” Before you know it, you have a suitcase that is overflowing with “just in case” items and is impossible to carry. Bringing an over-packed bag with you can actually make your vacation more stressful. You’ll struggle to drag it around and you’ll have to pay more in excess baggage fees.

However, with a few tips you can reduce the amount of stuff you bring with you and make packing a lot less stressful. Here are our helpful tips for packing your bags:

Packing Your Bags, The Smart Way

– Buy a smaller bag. We have a tendency to fill whichever bag or backpack we bring with us, so choosing a smaller bag will force you to be more minimal.
– Packing cubes are your best friend. They will allow you to organize your clothes according to category (pants, shirts, underwear, etc.) Then, you can bring out only the cube you need rather than having to unpack your entire bag.
– Choose clothing from lightweight but high-performance fabrics like merino wool, which will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
– When traveling in an unpredictable climate, bring multiple layers rather than one large coat. Bring your bulkiest coat on the plane so you don’t have to squeeze it into your luggage.
– Make sure that everything mixes and matches. All your tops should be able to be worn with all your bottoms. If not, it’s not worth bringing.
– Bring along items that do double duty. For example, a sarong can be used as a shawl, a swimsuit cover-up, a towel, a scarf and a blanket. A pair of dressy flip flops can be worn to the beach as well as out to a restaurant in the evening.

Packing cubes are your best friend!

– Stick with neutral colours so that everything will match, then add visual interest with scarves and accessories.
– You only need to pack enough clothes for 7 days, even if you are traveling for months at a time. You’ll simply need to wash them at your accommodation (if you’re in a furnished apartment with laundry) or find a laundromat once per week.
– Roll your clothing rather than folding it. Your clothes will take up less room and will look less wrinkled when you unpack them.
– Roll your socks and underwear into balls and place them inside your shoes. Why waste the space within the shoes?
– Don’t bother bringing toiletries you know your hotel or apartment will offer, or that you will be able to buy cheaply in your destination.
– Pack the heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, as this will make it easier to roll your bag. Also, it will be less likely to tip over.

Last but not least, consider making a list of everything you packed and actually used on your trip. Next time you travel, you’ll be able to refer to your list and pack only the items you’ll need and nothing else.

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